RALEIGH - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that more than half of taxpayers use professional preparers when it’s time to file income tax returns. North Carolina IRS spokesman Mark Hanson says a tax return is an important financial document, so it’s important to use caution when choosing a paid professional to help with your taxes.

He notes that you are responsible for your return even if it is prepared by someone else.

"A tax preparer should not be charging you a fee based upon the amount of refund you're expected to get. This could be a red flag right up front."

Hanson says a reliable tax professional will have an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number. And he advises taxpayers to investigate the person's professional credentials, review the return before signing, and make sure to get a copy of the return.